Contingency Planning or Business Continuity Management are terms used when organisations and businesses have in place a policy/plan and defining procedures to ensure their business would still function in the event of an emergency, i.e. premises flooded, a large fire, failure of computer information, or anything that stops your business from functioning and providing its normal service and meeting your client delivery expectations.

Why do you need a Contingency Plan?

Emergencies cause serious disruption to people's lives and Contingency Planning can minimise that disruption.

Could you continue to deliver your business services if you had a major fire at your premises, a flood or structural damage was caused to your premises that meant you had to move out - where would you go to continue trading and keep your customers satisfied?

80% of businesses affected by a major incident close within 18 months

90% of businesses that lose data from a disaster are forced to close within 2 years

58% of UK organisations were disrupted by the September 11th disaster. One in eight were seriously affected.

(Source: Normit 07/07)

Without a plan you could lose all you have built up, your livelihood and customers. Experience has shown that businesses/organisations with contingency arrangements in place are more likely to stay in business and recover quickly in the event of an emergency. It is not only major emergencies that disrupt businesses, a wide range of day to day functions can threaten your business continuity (i.e. what if your supplier has an emergency and cannot supply you?)

A Basic Plan
All you need is a basic plan that will help you manage your risks and ensure your business continues to function to at least a minimum level of service.

The time is right to put in place a plan that will ensure you can continue to provide service and we at Business Mentor Services can assist.